The 27ft reusable Skybolt 2 research rocket was unleashed by high tech firm Starchaser as part of its mission to eventually send travellers to the edge of space at 333,000 feet.

It tested vital electronic systems and a parachute recovery system to ensure the rocket returned safely to Earth.

Around 50 people watched the 30-second flight today at a military base in Otterburn, Northumberland.

Starchaser's managing director Steve Bennett said: “There are millions of people who’d like to take a trip to outer space and a successful flight of sky bolt will take us another step closer to making this a reality.

(Image: SWNS)

“And as part of our Educational Outreach Programme, Skybolt 2 will go on to inspire many thousands of youngsters as it will tour schools following the launch.”

Although designed to fly more than 100km to the edge of space, the maximum altitude for the first slight was limited to 4,000 feet to ensure a safe landing.

Mr Bennett added: “It flew nice and high exactly as it should do.

“Then it split apart in its separate pieces, which is one of the key tests we were doing, and two of three parachutes deployed, which is not a bad day.